Retired Marine Maj. Billy Hall, a 98-year-old veteran who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, recently shared his wartime experiences with Costa Mesa High students. Hall, who enlisted at 15 and earned a Bronze Star, among other honors, is one of the last living veterans who enlisted before Pearl Harbor. He and Dwight Hansen, a Gulf War veteran, run the "You Were Worth It Foundation," a nonprofit dedicated to honoring and remembering those who served and died.
Hall and Hansen have visited over 150 groups across Southern California in the three years since founding their organization, including civic organizations, schools, and military installations. Their mission is to convey the sacrifices made by service members and to remind audiences that freedom comes at a high cost. Ahead of Memorial Day, their efforts have been especially poignant, as they aim to instill in their listeners a deep appreciation for those who lost their lives defending the country.
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During his talk at Costa Mesa High, Hall recounted vivid memories of a 1943 mission over the Solomon Islands, where his quick thinking and bravery helped his crew survive a dangerous situation. Despite the challenges, his dedication and resourcefulness shone through. Hansen, who met Hall in 2021, assists in narrating these stories, demonstrating the strong bond of their Marine brotherhood.
Their storytelling has resonated deeply, especially with younger audiences. Students like Mateo Navarro, who comes from a family with a history of military service, found Hall's stories particularly impactful. Navarro reflected on the bravery and selflessness of soldiers who fought for people they never met, emphasizing the importance of listening to and honoring these stories.
Teachers, such as Gary Rodriguez, hope these interactions inspire students to appreciate the freedoms they enjoy and recognize the sacrifices made by previous generations. By holding these events before Memorial Day, the message of reflection and commemoration for fallen soldiers is magnified. Despite his age and occasional health challenges, Hall remains committed to sharing his experiences, feeling a deep responsibility to honor his fallen comrades. His partnership with Hansen, built on mutual respect and a shared mission, has enabled them to reach wide audiences, bridging generations and keeping the history and legacy of those who served alive.
Hall's heartfelt message, "Freedom isn’t free; it’s the most expensive thing," resonates with all who hear it. His dedication to ensuring that the sacrifices of service members are remembered and appreciated is a powerful reminder of the true cost of freedom.
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